Crystal's Notes 19 Oct

On my podcast this week, I had with me the ever popular Volker Krohn, my OG mentor, and the director of the Hoffman Process for Asia Pacific.

We spoke on how deeply our childhood conditioning shapes us as adults, and the struggle that many of us face in setting healthy boundaries with our parents.

The Impact of Childhood Conditioning

Our parents, often without realizing it, pass down their values, fears, and behaviours. This conditioning has a lasting impact, influencing our adult relationships and our sense of self-worth. Often, unresolved emotional needs from childhood — like the need for validation or love — manifest in adulthood. We may find ourselves seeking approval from our bosses or partners, just as we once sought approval from our parents.

But many parents, due to their own limitations or traumas, may not have the emotional resources to fully provide the love or validation we desired as children. Understanding that our parents gave us the ultimate gift — the gift of life —even if they couldn’t meet all our needs, can help us let go of unmet expectations.

Drawing Boundaries & Breaking Free

Many questions on my weekly AMA are about setting boundaries, especially with family members. In many cultures, particularly in Asia, filial piety is deeply ingrained, making it difficult to assert independence without feeling guilt. Breaking free from our conditioning and setting boundaries with our parents isn’t about rejecting them; it’s about honouring ourselves. By understanding the deep emotional patterns that shape our adult lives and taking responsibility for our own healing, we can create healthier relationships with our parents and ourselves.

Listen to the podcast here for more therapy insights.

Inspired Speaking Workshop by Petrina Kow Round 3!

Petrina’s workshops were so over-subscribed, we had to organise a third run! This is a power-packed workshop that will equip you with the essential practices of confident and compelling speaking. Click here for details.

I Am Well Journal Pre-Orders

If you’re looking for the perfect corporate gift, we are open for bulk pre-orders of the brand new 2025 edition of the I Am Well journal! If you have an order for 50 pieces or more, please email [email protected] and we will take your order. Rachel and I are also taking on limited requests to hold end-of-year private workshops or fireside chat events for your company or clients. Spots are very limited because Rachel will kill me if I say yes to everything, so please let us know early!

Much love

Crystal